Essendon young gun Jake Melksham says the players 'can't wait' for Friday night’s NAB Cup clash against Collingwood and the Western Bulldogs.
Melksham said everyone at the club was looking forward to the return of football.
"The boys are really pumped to get out there Friday night and have a crack at Collingwood and the Doggies," Melsham said.
The 21 year-old is excited to see how his teammates fare after a long pre season.
Melksham singled out David Myers and Brendon Goddard as the players to watch out for tomorrow night.
"David Myers has had a really good pre season, he's been able to get some continuity in his training and is looking really strong and fit at the moment, it will be good for the Bomber fans to see him out there," Melksham said.
"I think BJ will be good to watch out there as well."
Melksham has returned to training following surgery on his broken hand where he had plates and screws inserted, only hours after the injury occurred.
"I was out of the hospital about 6.30pm Friday night after it happened about 10am Friday morning," Melksham said.
"So it was a big day, but I got some good recovery over the weekend and its feeling really good at the moment."
Back at training, Melksham was restricted to running and a light kicking drill, "Tomorrow I get the stitches out and the splint off, then I'll be into running and bike until I get into the contact."
Despite the injury, Melksham is still hopeful of returning for the round two NAB CUP game against Richmond in Wangarratta.
